Abstract

We describe a strategy to reduce spin transfer switching (STS) currents in CoFe/Pd-based perpendicular anisotropy single spin valves (SSVs) by the insertion of an in-plane spin polarizer, thus creating a modified-dual spin valve (-DSV). For SSV devices, concurrent STS of both magnetic layers was observed for positive currents, making the parallel-to-antiparallel transition impossible. In -DSV devices, we observed a 60% reduction in the energy barrier for transitions and a 40% reduction in with 10 ns STS current pulses compared to SSV devices. Furthermore, the -DSV structure enabled the soft layer to switch independently from the hard layer via STS.